For investors considering villa and townhouse communities in Sharjah, freehold ownership is an important factor to understand. Masaar by Arada is a forest-inspired residential community offering villas and townhouses in the Tilal area of Sharjah, with Masaar 1, Masaar 2 and Masaar 3 forming part of the wider development.

But what exactly does freehold ownership mean, and why does it matter when buying a property at Masaar?

What Is Freehold Property Ownership?

Freehold ownership generally means the buyer owns the property on a permanent ownership basis, subject to the applicable laws and registration requirements.

In November 2022, the Sharjah government introduced changes allowing buyers of all nationalities to purchase residential and commercial property on a freehold basis in Sharjah. Arada subsequently confirmed that buyers could purchase homes in its communities, including Masaar, on a freehold basis regardless of nationality.

This was an important change for international investors considering property in Sharjah.

Why Is Freehold Ownership Important for Masaar Investors?

1. Available to Buyers of All Nationalities

One of the key advantages of the regulatory change is that freehold ownership in Sharjah is not restricted to UAE or GCC nationals in the same way as the previous ownership framework.

For international buyers looking at Masaar, this provides the opportunity to own a residential property on a freehold basis, subject to the applicable registration procedures.

2. Long-Term Property Ownership

For investors, freehold ownership provides a long-term ownership structure rather than a fixed lease period.

This can be particularly relevant when considering a property as a long-term family asset, investment property or potential resale asset.

3. Greater Flexibility for Investors

Masaar offers a selection of townhouses and villas. The current Masaar 3 offering includes 2, 3 and 4-bedroom townhouses as well as 4 and 5-bedroom villas.

The combination of freehold ownership and different residential formats allows investors to consider properties according to their budget, intended use and investment strategy.

Masaar: More Than Just Property Ownership

Freehold ownership is only one part of the investment consideration.

Masaar has been designed around a forest-living concept, with extensive greenery, outdoor recreation and wellness-focused amenities. The current Masaar 3 information highlights more than 100,000 trees, a swimmable lagoon with cascading waterfalls, cycling trails, sports courts and smart-home technology.

The development is also located in the Tilal/Rowdat area, with access to Khorfakkan Road and proximity to Emirates Road.

Freehold Ownership and Resale Potential

Freehold ownership can also be relevant when considering the future resale of a property.

However, ownership structure alone does not determine a property’s investment performance. Investors should also consider:

  • Purchase price
  • Property type and layout
  • Plot size
  • Location within Masaar
  • Community amenities
  • Construction and handover timeline
  • Market demand
  • Comparable resale properties
  • Potential rental demand
  • Transaction and ownership costs

These factors can vary considerably between individual units and phases.

Why Masaar Can Appeal to International Investors

The combination of freehold ownership, villa-focused living and a large master-planned community has helped make Masaar relevant to both local and international buyers.

Arada has specifically highlighted the impact of Sharjah’s freehold ownership reforms on demand for Masaar and other Arada communities.

For buyers looking beyond apartment investments and seeking larger homes in a green, family-oriented environment, Masaar offers a different proposition within Sharjah’s residential market.

Final Thoughts

Freehold ownership at Masaar means eligible buyers can purchase their villa or townhouse on a freehold basis under Sharjah’s current property ownership regulations. The 2022 change opened freehold ownership to buyers of all nationalities, expanding access to Sharjah’s residential property market.

For an investor, however, freehold status should be considered alongside the specific property’s price, location, layout, payment plan, future supply and expected demand.

To explore the latest Masaar 3 availability, floor plans and prices, visit Arada Masaar.